With 2026 just around the corner, it’s time to begin your metal inventory planning for Q4 of 2025. This year has been marked by fluctuations and volatility across geopolitics, supply chain, manufacturing, and more, and that pattern is expected to continue through the end of the year. Metal supply forecasting is key to staying ahead in this shifting landscape.
Read on to learn all about Q4 metal inventory planning, what to expect, and best practices for a successful end to the year.
The Current Metal Market Landscape
2025’s metal market has seen significant volatility due to geopolitical tensions and increasing tariffs. In March, the US introduced a 25% tariff on imported steel, including stainless steel metals, and aluminum. In June, those tariffs skyrocketed to 50%. Two months later, the 50% tariff expanded to copper, as well. These new fees, paid by the importing company, trickled down through the supply chain and drove the cost of metals up significantly. While steel prices have fallen recently, they still remain high in comparison to other countries.
Non-residential construction and public infrastructure projects currently drive most of the demand in metal manufacturing supply. There’s also rising demand across the aerospace, energy, and medical sectors.
Q4 2025 Metal Supply Forecast: What to Expect
Due to 2025’s ever-shifting metal market dynamics, metal inventory planning through the end of Q4 is more important than ever. Proper planning can protect your business from supply disruptions and ensure your operations stay on-track. Here’s what to anticipate in Q4 of 2025:
- Demand spike: Fast-approaching year-end deadlines mean demand for metal will spike across a range of industries in Q4.
- Increasing metal manufacturing supply utilization: As demand increases, mill utilization is expected to increase, too. That may result in longer wait times for some specialty materials like superalloys.
- Price volatility: The year’s pricing volatility is expected to continue throughout Q4, as trade policy shifts are likely.
Best Practices for Q4 Metal Inventory Planning
Success in Q4 begins with well thought-out metal inventory planning. Follow these best practices to maintain a consistent metal manufacturing supply and finish the year strong:
- Stay ahead of the game: With so much volatility in the metal market, it’s important to lay claim to your supply needs early. Place your orders before demand spikes.
- Consider just-in-time suppliers: Even with the best Q4 metal inventory planning, your needs can shift on a dime. Just-in-time inventory suppliers offer ready supply with quick turnaround times to help you keep up.
- Find a supplier with extensive inventory: Sourcing your inventory from too many metal manufacturing suppliers can increase supply chain complexity and cause significant confusion. Instead, look for a supplier with an extensive selection that meets all your needs.
Fry Steel: Your Just-in-Time Inventory Partner
Whether you’re in aerospace, energy, naval, or defense, Q4 can be a crucial time for your business. With shifting trade laws, geopolitical factors, and more, metal supply forecasting for Q4 of 2025 is more important than ever.
End the year on a strong note by partnering with Fry Steel for your metal supply needs. We offer extensive inventory, responsive customer service, and technical expertise to help you tackle any challenge that Q4 throws your way. Contact us today to get started.
